Theisoa pallidochrella

The combination of small size (~10 mm wingspan), light reddish-gray forewing ground color with bronzy-brown costal markings, and the specific pattern of spots (basal dot, large transverse spot at basal third, smaller apical spot) distinguishes this species from similar gelechiids. The shining dark fuscous hindwings provide additional diagnostic character. Separation from congeneric species requires examination of genitalia.

Small moth with wingspan approximately 10 mm. Forewings are light reddish gray, minutely dusted with dark purplish-fuscous scales. Markings consist of: an inconspicuous small dark bronzy-brown costal dot near the base; a large transverse dark bronzy-brown costal spot at the basal third, extending across the fold; a smaller concolorous costal spot at about the apical third; and dark scales at the wing tip collected into ill-defined transverse spots or streaks. Hindwings are shining and dark fuscous.

Known from Kentucky and Illinois, United States. Records are sparse, suggesting either restricted range or undercollection.

• Other Theisoa speciesCongeneric species share similar size and general wing pattern, requiring detailed examination of markings or genitalia for reliable identification.
• Aristotelia speciesMembers of the same subfamily (Aristoteliinae) often exhibit comparable bronzy-brown forewing markings and small size, necessitating careful comparison of spot patterns and hindwing coloration.

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• Catalogue of Life